HC Deb 07 April 1936 vol 310 cc2572-3
2. Mr. HARDIE

asked the Secretary for Mines what methods were adopted to give direction to the place where boring for oil has been decided upon?

Captain CROOKSHANK

The selection of sites for drilling is a matter for the licensee, who is entitled to use whatever method of determination appears to be appropriate in each case.

Mr. HARDIE

Is it not for the Government to say where boring for oil should take place?

Captain CROOKSHANK

No, it is not the Government's business. The Government business is to grant licences, and to see that the work is carried on.

Mr. HARDIE

Is it not a fact that when these licences are granted certain conditions are laid clown as to where or when, and also to prevent boring until full advantage has been taken of all the knowledge possessed in such work?

Captain CROOKSHANK

Not "where or when," A licence covers the area and it is granted to the licensee for working it.

Mr. HARDIE

Is not a licence granted to the holder to do what he likes, and the Minister cannot control him?